Frascati and Castelli Romani

The area of the ‘Castelli Romani’ (Roman Castles) is the most popular hill station in proximity to Rome, lying just 20 km south-east of the city. All the 16 municipalities of the region can be reached by Cotral buses from Anangina Terminal. The Roman Castles are a popular destination for a summer stroll during the weekend. Temperatures here are a few degrees less than in Rome. The main reason why Romans come to this hilly area is its legendary local dishes at affordable price. Besides being a paradise for non-vegetarians, the place provides a pleasing break to the vegetarians from their daily pasta and pizza routine. Among several processed meats available, porchetta is the most popular. This greasy roasted pork stuffed with herbs is usually eaten with bread. You can savour this delicious preparation at a local village known as Ariccia, which is also known for a church designed by Bernini.
Quite a big town in itself, Frascati is the most accessible of the castles from Rome, and often gets crowded during weekends. The Lake Nemi is known for the wild strawberries that flourish in the close by woods (seasonal only). Castel Gandolfo, a village on Albano Lake, is also the location of the summer residence of the Pope. In Marino there is a yearly grape festival, usually celebrated on the first Sunday of October, when some fountains spill wine instead of water.